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There appears to be some interesting debate about this one's origin. Personally, I agree with the one who says cotton adheres to anything and everything in the wash, so if even cotton isn't adhereing------ Here's an interesting discussion for you to review: http://www.phrases.org.uk/bulletin_board/50/messages/949.html

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17y ago

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Related Questions

What does the cowboy slang 'cotton to' mean?

Cowboys loved a colorful phrase! This one meant to take a liking to. You might cotton to a new hand if you had common interests.


Can the word cotton be used as a verb?

Yes, it can. It is an informal way to say 'take a liking to'. Example: She cottons to people easily. It can also mean 'come to understand' It took me a while to cotton on, but he was just using me.


Is cotton a conjunction noun verb or adjective?

The word 'cotton' is a noun, a word for a type of plant; a word for the fiber from the plant; a word for a thing.The word 'cotton' is also an informal verb, meaning to take a liking to something.


Where is the expression don't cotton to come from?

The expression "don't cotton to" originates from the 19th-century American South, where "cotton" referred to the cotton plant, a significant crop in the region. The phrase means to not take a liking to or to not accept something. It likely derives from the idea that cotton was a staple of Southern life, and not "cottoning to" something implies a rejection of what is familiar or customary. Over time, it has evolved into a colloquial expression used more broadly in English.


What if a teacher smiles at you?

They take a liking into you


What is the meaning of the word 'cotton' in the sentence 'Ben never did cotton to the sales side of the business'?

The sentence "Jim never did cotton to the sales side of the business" could be rephrased "Jim did not cotton to the sales side of the business", so the operative phrase is not "to do cotton to" but "to cotton to", and to cotton to something or someone means to like or to feel an affinity for that thing or person. So, the fact that Jim did not cotton to the sales side of the business means that he didn't like or understand it.


What does it mean when a boy cares for you?

it means that he is liking you


What does it mean to take a shine to someone?

To take a liking to someone, usually on first meeting. To hit it off with the person. To show a positive response, as if you liked the person right away.


What does hugs and loves mean in a text by a girl?

It means that she likes you. Liking does not mean as a partner only. It could also mean liking as a friend.


What are the key features of a boy liking you?

the keys of a boy liking you are being mean to you or being funny to try to impress you!


What does the expression to take a fancy something mean?

take a liking. Or, to define it without using another slang term, it means to enjoy doing something, to decide that you like it, to develop a fondness for it.


What does it mean if a boy calls you weird?

depends on the boy some people like me end up liking weird people and take weird as a complement